Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini

I first stumbled upon roasted cauliflower steaks during a cozy weekend cooking experiment and instantly fell in love with how simple veggies transform into something so golden and satisfying.

I remember the first time unexpected guests dropped by and I whipped up these cauliflower steaks without breaking a sweat — they were impressed, and so was I.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower heads: Large and fresh to ensure thick, sturdy steaks that roast beautifully without falling apart
• Olive oil: Quality extra virgin, because it helps to caramelize the edges and brings that lovely richness
• Ground cumin and smoked paprika: These spices create a warm, smoky layer that’s essential for that Middle Eastern flair
• Garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper: To elevate the flavor without overpowering the freshness; balance is key
• Tahini: Sesame paste that adds creamy texture and a nutty depth; look for smooth and well-stirred jars
• Fresh lemon juice and minced garlic: Packed with brightness and a gentle bite for the sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley and toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds: For that final pop of color, crunch, and extra flavor

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. This prep makes the entire process smoother and your cauliflower won’t stick around waiting.

Slice and Season:

After stripping the outer leaves, slice the cauliflower into thick, 1-inch steaks. Brush each side generously with olive oil and sprinkle the cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly—you want every bite full of that smoky aroma and taste.

Roast to Perfection:

Place the steaks on your baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway to caramelize both sides. Watch for golden brown edges and a tender scent that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Whip up the Sauce:

While roasting, whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cold water gradually until you get a creamy but pourable consistency that will coat the cauliflower just right.

Final Touch:

Arrange the roasted steaks on a platter, drizzle generously with tahini sauce, sprinkle parsley and toasted nuts, and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh zing.

Save

One evening, this dish turned a quiet dinner into a warm memory, reminding me how simple food can bring so much comfort and connection to the table.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftover steaks reheat beautifully in a hot skillet, regaining some crispiness while warming through; fresh parsley sprinkled right before serving brightens the whole dish instantly.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair these cauliflower steaks with fluffy couscous or a bright quinoa salad to round out the meal or simply serve with warm pita for an easy, satisfying bite.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

When a busy week left me drained, roasting these steaks brought a sense of calm and accomplishment, filling the kitchen with enticing smells and unlocking moments of joy in simple flavors.

• Remember to let the tahini sauce sit for a few minutes to meld flavors
• If pine nuts aren't available, toasted almonds are a great substitute for crunch
• Always slice the cauliflower steaks just before roasting to keep them fresh and crisp

Save

Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me; here’s to many more simple dishes that feel like a hug on a plate.

Your Questions Answered

→ How do you slice cauliflower into steaks?

Remove outer leaves and cut the cauliflower vertically into 1-inch thick slices, aiming for 2–3 steaks per head.

→ What spices enhance roasted cauliflower?

Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder add earthy and smoky layers of flavor to the cauliflower.

→ How to make the tahini sauce creamy?

Whisk tahini with lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and gradually add cold water until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

→ Can the tahini sauce be made ahead?

Yes, it can be prepared up to three days in advance and refrigerated for convenience.

→ What are good garnish options?

Fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, and lemon wedges complement the dish beautifully.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.